What Every Parent Should Know Before Their First IEP Meeting
By: Mattelin McReynolds, Advocate
Your first IEP meeting can feel overwhelming. You want to make sure your child gets the right support, but the process is full of unfamiliar terms, professionals, and paperwork. The good news? You don’t have to go in unprepared. Understanding what to expect and what your role is can make all the difference.
Here’s what every parent should know before sitting down at that first IEP table.
1. You Are an Equal Member of the Team
It’s easy to feel like the professionals know best, but under the law, parents are equal members of the IEP team. You know your child better than anyone else their strengths, triggers, and what truly works. Your insights should help shape the plan just as much as the teachers, specialists, or administrators in the room.
Don’t hesitate to share your perspective, even if it’s different from what the team suggests. Collaboration doesn’t mean silence, it means bringing your voice to the table.
2. Know the Purpose of the Meeting
The first IEP meeting is usually held after the school has completed evaluations to determine eligibility for special education services. The team will review assessment results, discuss your child’s areas of need, and decide whether your child qualifies under one of the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) categories.
If your child is found eligible, this meeting will also begin the process of developing an IEP outlining goals, supports, and accommodations.
Ask for copies of evaluation reports, draft IEPs, progress reports, and any other relevant data before the meeting so you have time to read and prepare questions.
3. Understand the Key Components of an IEP
An effective IEP should clearly describe:
Your child’s present levels of performance (PLOP): Where they are academically, socially, and behaviorally.
Annual goals: What your child should accomplish within a year.
Services and supports: What the school will provide (speech therapy, OT, specialized instruction, etc.).
Accommodations/modifications: Changes to help your child access the curriculum (extra time, sensory breaks, preferential seating, etc.).
Progress monitoring: How the school will measure and report your child’s progress.
Every goal should be measurable and realistic vague goals make it hard to track progress.
4. Bring Documentation and Notes
Come prepared. Bring copies of private evaluations, past report cards, teacher emails, or any notes about behaviors or challenges at home. These details help build a more complete picture of your child’s needs.
Tip: Write down your concerns and questions before the meeting. When emotions run high, it’s easy to forget key points you wanted to raise.
5. Ask Questions!!
You don’t need to understand every acronym or educational term on the spot. If something is unclear, ask for it to be explained in plain language.
Good questions to ask include:
“How will this goal be measured?”
“What strategies will be used to help my child meet this goal?”
“How often will I receive updates on progress?”
“How will this support look in the classroom day-to-day?”
Remember, clarity helps both you and the school stay accountable, and your child make meaningful progress!
6. You Can Take Time to Review
If you feel rushed or uncertain, you do not have to sign the IEP immediately. Ask for a copy to review at home. This is especially important if you want to consult with a specialist or advocate before agreeing to the plan.
For an initial IEP the district is required to have your signature for implementation.
7. You Don’t Have to Go Alone
If you’re feeling anxious, you can bring a trusted person, an advocate, family member, or friend to support you. Having another set of ears helps catch details and take notes so you can stay focused on your child.
Your first IEP meeting is the beginning of an ongoing partnership between you and your child’s school. It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember: you’re there to advocate for what your child needs to thrive. Preparation, documentation, and confidence in your role will help you walk into that room ready to collaborate and walk out with a plan that supports your child’s success.
